How important to the history of the NFL is Sammy Baugh? He’s credited for making the forward pass an integral part of the offensive play in the NFL.

Think about that for a minute. The forward pass!

“Slinging Sammy” Baugh played in the National Football League for the Washington Redskins from 1937 to 1952.

During his rookie season in 1937, Baugh played quarterback, defensive back, and punter. He led the Redskins to the NFL Championship game against the Chicago Bears, where he finished 17 of 33 for 335 yards and three TDs.

His 335 passing yards remained the most ever in a playoff game by any rookie QB in NFL history until Russell Wilson broke the record in 2012. That’s 74-years later!

In 1943 he led the league in passing, punting (45.9-yard average) and interceptions (11). One of Baugh's more memorable single performances during the season was when he threw four touchdown passes and intercepted four passes in a 42–20 victory over Detroit.

By the time he retired, Baugh owned 13 NFL records in three player positions: quarterback, punter, and defensive back. He is considered one of the all-time great football players.

He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.

What was going on in 1937?

Price of an average car was $760.

Amelia Mary Earhart mysteriously disappeared over the Pacific Ocean during a circumnavigation flight.

A banana split cost $0.12.

While attempting to dock in Lakehurst, New Jersey, the Hindenburg bursts into flames (Google it).

Walt Disney’s first animated feature Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was released.